Nigeria’s Catholic Bishops condemn President Tinubu’s economic policies, citing soaring poverty and insecurity

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Sunny A. David, Awka 

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, arguing they have driven millions into poverty amid skyrocketing inflation.  

Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, CBCN President, stated at the conference’s plenary meeting in Abuja that the reforms, while aiming for long-term economic stability, have instead drastically reduced purchasing power and exacerbated hardship.

The CBCN cited alarming statistics:  the World Bank projects 129 million Nigerians living below the poverty line, placing Nigeria second globally in acute food insecurity (24 million people) according to the 2024 Global Report on Food Crisis.  

Food inflation reached 39.84% in December 2024, with Nigerians reportedly spending 65% of their income on food, leaving little for healthcare and other necessities.  

While acknowledging government efforts like palliative distribution and duty waivers, the CBCN deemed these insufficient to alleviate the widespread suffering and its impact on mental health.

Although the Archbishop noted some positive developments, including road infrastructure improvements, a student loan scheme, a new minimum wage, and reduced debt servicing, he emphasized the overall bleak situation.  

The CBCN also highlighted persistent insecurity, with escalating violence from Boko Haram, bandits, and unknown gunmen, including increased kidnappings and killings, even targeting religious leaders.

On his part, the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the theme of the first plenary session, “Jubilee of Hope: A light for a better Nigeria,” invites all to return to God and re-establish or strengthen their relationship with the Creator; to reflect on relationships with one another and with the entire creation in the light of God’s will.